LANSING, Mich., June 28, 2023 — The Michigan House of Representatives passed the state’s fiscal 2023-24 budget today. It includes the largest investment in education in Michigan’s history, including free lunch and breakfast for every public school student, affordable pre-K, as well as substantial funding for student transportation in rural school districts. It also includes major investments in workforce recruitment and retention, mental health support, veterans services, and public safety. It will also provide direct financial support to Michigan families for essential needs like energy efficiency, home improvements, and college tuition or job training.
“I’m proud to support a budget that prioritizes the U.P. and makes substantial investments in our communities,” said state Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette). “We secured millions of dollars to support the needs of our region, ranging from housing and transportation infrastructure to public safety and the arts. We are well on our way to reversing Lansing’s long history of disinvestment in our northern communities.”
The budget includes several items that will specifically benefit the communities of the 109th House District, which Hill represents. Notable highlights include:
- $3 million to Baraga County for the construction of a new transportation maintenance facility and service center.
- $3 million for the restoration of the Vista Theatre in Negaunee.
- $1.8 million for the Republic Township dam and fish passage project.
- $300,000 to extend the Iron Ore Heritage Trail into Lakenenland.
- $150,000 to Chocolay Township for the purchase of firefighting equipment.